American Red Cross Recognizes American Water for Tsunami Relief

American Red Cross officials from the charity's Camden County (N.J.) chapter will attend a check presentation ceremony on April 15 at American Water's corporate headquarters in Voorhees Township, N.J.

American Water President and CEO Jeremy Pelczer will present the officials with a check for $93,600 made out to the Red Cross International Response Fund to benefiting the victims of the December 26, 2004 tsunami.

Approximately 50% of the funds were donated by American Water employees, and Pelczer commented on how proud he is to be part of an organization that cares about the health and well-being of others worldwide.

"I am very much looking forward to presenting a check on behalf of the employees of American Water and the company to the American Red Cross," Pelczer said. "Our employees have shown overwhelming compassion and generosity toward the victims of the tsunami in Asia."

American Water employees donated more than $46,500 to the Red Cross in the U.S. and Canada, and another $1,300 to other relief organizations including Doctors Without Borders and the Salvation Army. American Water matched these funds dollar for dollar with a corporate gift, representing only a portion of what the company at large contributed.

American Water is part of RWE Thames Water, the water division of RWE, an international utility company. RWE Thames Water also matched its employees' donations. Combined, American Water and RWE Thames Water raised over $256,000 for tsunami relief.

"The American Red Cross goal of raising at least $400 million has been reached, because of the overwhelming response to this tragedy from companies like American Water and from the American people," said American Red Cross Chapter Chair John C. Connell, Esq. "We are grateful for the kindness and generosity of American Water leadership and employees whose donations will help to feed millions of people and aid in the relief effort for years to come."